Punta del Este : Uruguay

What it's Like to Retire in Punta del Este

Punta del Este is a coastal community and resort on the southeastern coast of Uruguay, popular with vacationers and retirees from this country and abroad. The population is 9,200 but easily exceeds that in January, the Uruguan summer. There are several high profile resorts in the area. La Barra is popular for nautical sports and fishing during the day, and during the season there is considerable nightlife. Originally just sand dunes and coast, Antonio Lussich bought 4,447 acres and started a botanical garden, Arboretum Lussich, and planted trees and plants from all over the world. Later the trees started to spread on their own, and now the area is full of mostly Pines, Eucalyptus, Acacias and various species of bushes.

Where to Retire in Punta del Este and Home Prices

You can live near the beach or inland, in a resort or on your own. Prices are very high in the nicest developements and on the beach - expect to pay in the hundreds of thousands of US dollars to well over a million. Smaller apartments can be had for less. Search on Punta del Este real estate to find some listings.

What is special about Punta del Este

President Lyndon Johnson once attended a summit conference in Punta del Este. The beautiful vegetation, beaches, and relaxed atmosphere of this small community is very special. Uruguay is easy to immigrate to (see our retirement guide to Uruguay) and considered a tax haven for expatriates.

What is not special about Punta del Este

It is a very small community, but one that is populated in season with jet setters and wealthy/famous Argentines looking to party. You will be far from quality medical care and cultural inputs.

Who will like retirement in Punta del Este

Adventurous people who speak Spanish, like the beach, and look forward to a South American retirement will like it here. Most expenses will be lower than average, except for imported items ilke automobiles.

Local economy is driven by

Tourism and vacation homes drive the economy.

Climate and Physical Environment

Punta del Este is located on the southeastern coast of Uruguay. The seasons are reversed in the southern hemisphere, so July is cool (low 50s F. average) and January warm (low 70s).

Restaurants & Cultural Scene

Uruguayans and visiting Argentines love to eat (meat) and party late. In season you will find many choices of restaurants. This is a jet setters town, private parties go on all night. Casa Pueblo, a museum in a white-stucco castle that displays works by Uruguayan artist Carlos Páez Vilaró

Crime

The region seems to be safe, although you should always be vigilant in areas not frequently patrolled.

Medical facilities

There are of course doctors and clinics but for anything serious you must go to a larger city. Medicare is not accepted - one should have insurance valid for this system.

Transportation

The automobile is key. From Montevideo you can take a ferry to Buenos Aires or fly anywhere.

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